The Battle of Puebla
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Mexico celebrates The Battle of Puebla as a national holiday on May 5th. Here in the United States the day is called “Cinco de Mayo.” This date commemorates the Mexican army’s unexpected victory over the much larger and better-equipped French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.
This was just one of many battles during the Second Franco – Mexican War that took place 1861-1867.
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The history behind the Battle of Puebla
The battle was a significant moment in Mexican history, as it demonstrated the strength and determination of the Mexican people in their struggle for independence and sovereignty. Eventually, the French overran the Mexicans.
The French were trying to gain a position in North America, however, after the end of the American Civil War in 1865, The United States began providing Mexico with material support.
The United States foreign Policy at the time, The Monroe Doctrine stated that European colonization was not welcome and “any intervention in the political affairs of the Americas by foreign powers was a potentially hostile act against the U.S”
The French began to withdraw from Mexico in 1866, and the Republic was restored in 1867.
The victory at the Battle of Puebla remains an important symbol of Mexican national pride and identity.
Celebrating in Mexico, and the United States
The Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla is celebrated each year at a festival on the same date as the battle. It is primarily celebrated in the Mexican state of Puebla. They call the holiday El Día de la Batalla de Puebla ( The Day of the Battle of Puebla).
The United States celebrates the Popular version Cinco de Mayo as a celebration of Mexican heritage.
It is important that Cinco De Mayo is not Confused with Mexican Independence Day – September 16th.
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You can celebrate the battle of Puebla / Cinco de mayo by:
While it’s a relatively minor holiday in Mexico, it has become a popular celebration in the United States. Here are some ways children can celebrate Cinco de Mayo:
- Make Mexican Food: Cooking is a fun and delicious way to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Try making some traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, guacamole, or salsa. Huevos Rancheros Mexican Street Tacos Chile Relleno
- Decorate: Create festive decorations such as paper flowers, piñatas, or PAPER PICADO (decorative cut-out paper banners) to hang around the house.
- Learn about Mexican Culture: Take the time to learn about Mexican culture, history, and traditions with your child. Read books, watch videos, or attend a cultural event.
- Listen to Mexican Music: Listen to traditional Mexican music like Mariachi, Banda, or Norteña to get into the festive spirit.
- Dance: Learn traditional Mexican dances like the Jarabe Tapatio or the Mexican Hat Dance and have a dance party with family and friends.
- Create Art: Make Mexican-inspired crafts like maracas, sombreros, or serapes using colorful construction paper, glue, and other craft supplies.
- Play Games: Play traditional Mexican games like Loteria (Mexican bingo), Toma Todo (Mexican version of the game of War), or La Pirinola (a spinning top game).
- Dress Up: Wear traditional Mexican clothing like sombreros, ponchos, or dresses to celebrate the holiday.
Here is an EASY PAPER BAG PINATA
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Can’t celebrate this year – Mark your calendar & save this holiday for next year!
You can also pin the image below to your Pinterest boards to save this fantastic holiday!
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